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Easy Homemade Caramel Corn: A Delightful Treat

Caramel corn, with its sweet, buttery crunch, is a classic snack that brings back fond memories of fairs, picnics, and cosy movie nights. Making your own caramel corn at home is simpler than you might think, and the results are undeniably satisfying. In this article, we will guide you through an easy recipe to create this delightful treat that you can enjoy any time.

The Ingredients

To whip up a batch of homemade caramel corn, you will need the following ingredients:

• 100g (about 1/2 cup) of popping corn (unbuttered, plain popcorn kernels)
• 200g (about 1 cup) of granulated sugar
• 100g (about 1/2 cup) of unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons of golden syrup (or light corn syrup)
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)

Equipment Needed

• A large pot or popcorn maker
• A heavy-bottomed saucepan
• A large mixing bowl
• Baking parchment
• A wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• A baking tray

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Pop the Corn: Start by popping the corn kernels. If you’re using a traditional pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat, add the kernels, and cover with a lid. Shake the pot occasionally until the popping slows down. Alternatively, use an electric popcorn maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once popped, transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl. Make sure to remove any unpopped kernels.

2. Make the Caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, butter, and golden syrup. Stir continuously until the mixture is well combined and starts to boil. Once it reaches a gentle boil, stop stirring and allow it to cook for about 4-5 minutes until it turns a lovely golden brown colour. Be careful not to let it burn.

3. Add the Flavourings: Remove the caramel from the heat and quickly stir in the salt, baking soda, and vanilla extract (if using). The mixture may bubble up a bit; this is normal. The baking soda will give your caramel a delightful lightness.

4. Combine the Caramel and Popcorn: Immediately pour the hot caramel over the popped corn in the mixing bowl. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, toss the popcorn to ensure every piece is evenly coated. This part can get a bit sticky, so be patient and gentle as you mix.

5. Bake the Caramel Corn: Preheat your oven to 120°C (250°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Spread the caramel-coated popcorn onto the baking tray in a single layer, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. This step helps to set the caramel and gives the popcorn a perfect crunch.

6. Cool and Store: Once baked, remove the caramel corn from the oven and allow it to cool on the baking tray. Once cool, break it into pieces and store it in an airtight container. Your homemade caramel corn can last up to a week if stored correctly—though it’s likely to disappear much faster!

Enjoying Your Caramel Corn

Homemade caramel corn makes for an excellent snack while watching your favourite film, or it can be packaged beautifully as a gift for friends and family. Feel free to customise your caramel corn by adding nuts, chocolate drizzles, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra kick.

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that delights both the young and the young at heart, this easy homemade caramel corn recipe is just what you need. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of making this heavenly snack from scratch. Happy cooking!

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